Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune mediated disease of the central nervous system that affects over 350,000 Americans. T lymphocytes, macrophages and soluble mediators of inflammation cause demyelination and axonal injury in MS. Activated macrophages release nitric oxide and oxygen free radicals that cause demyelination and axonal injury in MS and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Natural antioxidants may favorably influence the course of MS by decreasing oxidative injury. Chronic relapsing EAE in mouse models is clinically and pathologically useful for testing potential therapies for MS.